Supreme Court

There are two cases before the Supreme Court questioning whether the government can both confiscate property and hand down prison sentences to people guilty of drug offences. To look at the particulars of these questions, Charlayne Hunter-Gault talks to Stuart Taylor of The Amercican Lawyer magazine. Continue reading →

The Supreme Court heard arguments that could change the ways political parties can support their candidates. The case involves the use by the Colorado Republican Party of indirect campaign contributions, also known as “soft” money. Jim Lehrer explores the potential legal and political impacts of the court case. Continue reading →

At issue in Monday’s Supreme Court hearing was whether blacks accused of selling crack cocaine have been targeted for federal prosecution because of their race. Jeffrey Kaye of station KCET-Los Angeles has a background report. Continue reading →

The Supreme Court is hearing arguments about what is a “fair” amount of time a convicted person must serve for a crime. Judges on a local level have not neccessarily followed Congress’ mandates. Elizabeth Farnsworth talks to legal correspondent Stuart Taylor of “The American Lawyer.” Continue reading →

The Supreme Court is hearing arguments on whether a trial judge properly reduced mandatory prison terms for the two officers convicted in the Los Angeles beating case of Rodney King. Jeffrey Kaye of public station KCET in Los Angeles gives the background. Continue reading →

Stuart Taylor talks about the boot camp style training and other controversial activities at the Virginia Military Institute with Elizabeth Farnsworth. The Supreme Court is currently considering a sex discrimination case that involves VMI and its “men only” admissions policy. Continue reading →

The Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that tests the constitutionality of a 1992 Colorado ballot initiative known as Amendment Two. It would invalidate state or local laws that prohibit discrimination against gays, lesbians, or bisexuals. Attorneys from both sides claim the Justices’ questioning bolstered their arguments. Continue reading →

Justice Harry Blackmun stepped down from the High Court in 1994, after 24 years on the bench. His legacy includes decisions on Roe vs. Wade, sex discrimination and civil rights. On the day of his retirement, a panel of legal experts discussed his most influential decisions. Continue reading →